They wanted to know why he had recently appeared on Russian TV and what, exactly, he intended to do at the government-controlled Area 51. He told them the truth: He and his childhood friend, Eduards Nits, owned the world's oldest McDonald's Quarter Pounder, and they rose to internet fame as a result, explaining their bizarre appearance on a state-run television network that espouses political propaganda to millions of people.
Since the early 90s, McDonald's has teamed up with celebrities to offer special menu items to the masses. The smart marketing strategy has translated into serious dollars for the brand and a few unforgettable recipes for customers visiting the Golden Arches. One of the first collaborations was between the fast-food chain and Michael Jordan. The convergence of forces resulted in the McJordan Special combo, a limited-time order of a McJordan burger, which was made with Jordan's favorite toppings, fries, and a drink.
Today, individually wrapped Happy Meal Teenie Beanie Babies tend to sell on resale sites for between $5-$25, but there's an ongoing auction on Etsy for 12 of the 1998 toys going for over $5,200, which is more valuable due to the original packaging. There's also record on a Beanies Babies Collectors Group website of unopened McDonald's International Bears (one variant of the toy) selling for $2,000 and $5,400.
McDonald's McNuggets debuted nationally on U.S. menus in 1983, while Wendy's introduced its version in 1985. Both menu mainstays have seen some changes over the years, but looking at the most basic, original iterations, Tasting Table has decided that Wendy's offers a superior taste and texture. In addition, while there are roughly 30 ingredients in McDonald's McNuggets, Wendy's chicken nuggets have less than 25.
Burgers at McDonald's are assembled to order - meaning the condiments and extras are added when you place your order - but the patties themselves are kept in what's called a UHC (Universal Holding Cabinet). That's where they stay warm until it's time to build your sandwich. The one exception is Quarter Pounders, which McDonald's policy requires to be cooked fresh every time you order one.
Launched in 1990 by a local businessman, Megatron was an ambitious undertaking. The disc-shaped interior had sleek white tables encircling what appeared to be a mock up of a space ship's communications station. Visually, it melded together the bridges of the USS Enterprise and the Death Star (albeit low-budget versions). Lasers lit up the room at regular intervals, while customers punched in their own order via touchscreen - a technological wonder 35 years ago.
"Over the past few years we've seen how fans flock to our characters, everyone from Grimace to the Hamburglar. But many, especially the new generation, don't know that's just the tip of the iceberg. There's an entire magical world of McDonaldland filled with characters, places and lore."
